Wed, Oct 26, 22

What are Natural Alternatives to Xanax?

Xanax is one of the most popular medications for treating anxiety in the US. Known generically as alprazolam, Xanax falls into a class of medications known as benzodiazepines. 

These medications work with the brain and the nervous system to produce a calming effect. While Xanax has helped millions of people manage their anxiety, it does come with some unwanted side effects. 

Many people who take Xanax experience drowsiness, dizziness, memory problems, sleep problems, trouble concentrating, and poor coordination. If you’re looking to avoid some of these side effects, there are some natural alternatives you can look into

Keep reading to discover the best natural alternatives to Xanax

Related: The Best Nootropics for Anxiety 

Why Should You Avoid Xanax? 

While Xanax has helped a lot of people, there are many reasons you may want to consider avoiding Xanax. Here are some of the dangers of Xanax:

It Comes With Serious Side Effects

As we mentioned, Xanax can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and other unwanted side effects. It can also cause:

  • Headaches
  • Blurred vision
  • Diminished sex drive
  • Muscle weakness
  • Appetite changes

Some more consequential but less common side effects may include:

  • Chest pain
  • Urination changes
  • Depression and suicidal thoughts
  • Seizures
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Hives

There are many natural alternatives that don’t come with these unwanted side effects. 

It Can’t Be Mixed With Alcohol 

Another major downside to Xanax is that it shouldn’t be mixed with alcohol. This can be a huge problem if you want to go out for a few drinks with friends, as you also shouldn’t skip a dose. 

According to recent research, benzodiazepines are responsible for a large number of emergency room visits. They account for 9.9% of all ED visits that involve adverse medication-related events. Many of these visits involve the use of Xanax. 

To be clear, most people who take Xanax never wind up in the emergency room. However, if you want to avoid this slight possibility at all costs, it may be a good idea to switch to a natural Xanax alternative, especially if you enjoy drinking alcohol. 

It Can Be Addictive 

Xanax can be addicting

 

Another major downside to Xanax is that it can be addictive. While most people can take it safely for a few months, after a few months, many patients build up a tolerance to the medication. This means that to feel the same effects, they’ll need to increase their dose. 

For some patients, quitting Xanax after a few months can be very difficult. According to the American Addiction Centers, Xanax and other benzodiazepines are among the hardest drugs to quit. The great thing about natural Xanax alternatives is that none of them are addictive. You can continue to take them for as long as you like without experiencing any addiction-related symptoms. 

L-Theanine

L-theanine is an amino acid that’s mainly found in green tea, black tea, and some mushroom species. You can also find it in pill and tablet form. 

Research shows that not only does l-theanine help you relax, but it does so without causing any drowsiness. One group of four trials that included 104 participants found that people who took l-theanine experienced lower stress levels and anxiety during stressful situations. 

In addition to reducing stress and taking the place of Xanax, l-theanine also helps improve your immunity, increase your focus, and reduce insomnia

Are you wondering how you can increase dopamine naturally? Click here to find out. 

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal herb that’s commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. It’s an adaptogen, which means that it can help your body better manage stress and anxiety. 

It’s also been used for over three thousand years to increase energy levels and improve concentration. Ashwagandha can also help:

  • Reduce blood sugar levels
  • Reduce cortisol levels
  • Reduce symptoms of depression
  • Boost testosterone and increase fertility in men
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Increase muscle mass and strength
  • Lower cholesterol and triglycerides 
  • Improve brain function and memory

In terms of reducing stress and anxiety, researchers have found that it blocks the stress pathway in rat brains. Another study looked at 64 people with chronic stress levels over a 60-day period. The group who took an ashwagandha supplement reported a 69% reduction in insomnia and stress. The placebo group only reported an 11% reduction in insomnia and stress. 

Magnesium 

Magnesium is another great natural alternative to Xanax. Magnesium occurs naturally in many food sources, including avocados, nuts, dark chocolate, legumes, whole grains, tofu, and some fatty fish. 

Magnesium helps you relax by increasing GABA. GABA is an amino acid that works with the neurotransmitters in your brain. Neurotransmitters serve as chemical messengers, and GABA is classified as an inhibitory neurotransmitter because it blocks certain brain signals and decreases nervous system activity. Because of this, GABA produces a calming effect on the body

Related: Does Magnesium Help With Anxiety?: Find Out Here 

Rhodiola Rosea 

Rhodiola Rosea is an herb that’s native to the cold, mountainous regions of Asia and Europe. Its roots are adaptogens, which means they can help your body adapt to stress. 

People in Scandinavia and Russia often use Rhodiola Rosea to naturally relieve anxiety, fatigue, and depression. A recent study looked at the effects of consuming 400 mg of Rhodiola Rosea per day for four weeks. Study participants reported significant improvements in stress, fatigue, exhaustion, and anxiety levels. 

CBD Oil

CBD oil is a good alternative to Xanax

 

CBD has exploded in popularity over the last several years due to the numerous health benefits it provides. CBD oil derives from the cannabis plant, however, it doesn’t have any psychoactive properties. In other words, it won’t make you feel. 

In addition to providing anxiety relief, CBD oil can also help fight depression, reduce acne, relieve pain, and alleviate cancer-related symptoms. 

Related: How to Stop Overthinking: A Simple Guide to Help You Relax 

Natural Alternatives to Xanax: Conclusion 

Now that you know about the best natural alternatives to Xanax, it’s time to give these solutions a try. Of course, you should always speak to your doctor first before you make any changes to your medication. 

Hopefully, the above products will help you experience anxiety relief the natural way

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